Gout and Cortisone Injections

Gout is a painful and common form of inflammatory arthritis that can disrupt your daily life with sudden and severe pain in the joints. This article will explore what gout is, its causes, signs, and how to relieve pain.

At Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute in Austin, Texas, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gout, offering personalized care to help you manage and reduce gout attacks effectively. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe joint pain, often in the big toe. It occurs when there is too much uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of sharp, needle-like crystals in the affected joint. This causes intense pain, swelling, and redness.

What Causes Gout?

Gout is primarily caused by elevated uric acid levels in the blood. Factors that contribute to this include:

Diet: Consuming foods high in purines (e.g., red meat, seafood) can increase uric acid.
Genetics: A family history of gout increases your risk.
Medical Conditions: Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and kidney disease can contribute to high uric acid levels.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, alcohol consumption, and certain medications can also increase your chances of having a gout attack.

Signs of Gout

Common signs of gout include:

Sudden, intense joint pain: Often starting at night and peaking within the first 4-12 hours.
Swelling and redness: The affected joint becomes swollen, red, and tender.
Lingering discomfort: Even after the severe pain subsides, some joint discomfort may remain.

How to Relieve Pain from Gout

Managing gout involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatment to reduce pain and prevent future attacks:

Pain Relief: Over-the-counter NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by a gout attack.
Rest and Ice: Resting the affected joint and applying ice can alleviate symptoms.
Medications: Prescribed medications may help lower uric acid levels and prevent gout attacks.

Cortisone Injections for Gout

Cortisone injections are a powerful treatment option for relieving severe pain associated with gout flare-ups and other inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the affected joint, reducing inflammation and providing rapid pain relief. A cortisone injection is often recommended when other treatments have not been effective or when the pain is particularly severe.

Benefits of Cortisone Injections

Quick Relief: Cortisone injections can provide fast pain relief within 24 to 48 hours.
Reduced Inflammation: They help to reduce swelling and improve joint mobility quickly.
Convenient: These injections are a simple outpatient procedure that can be done in your doctor’s office.

Side Effects of Cortisone Injections

While cortisone injections for gout are generally safe, they can have some side effects, including:

Temporary pain or discomfort at the injection site.
Flushed face or mood changes.
Increased blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Joint infection or tendon weakening (rare).

It’s important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before receiving a cortisone shot.

How to Prevent Gout Flare-Ups

Preventing gout flare-ups involves a proactive approach to managing uric acid levels and maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

Dietary Changes: Avoid foods high in purines and limit alcohol intake.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out uric acid.
Regular Exercise: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your joints.
Medications: Take any prescribed medications to lower uric acid levels as directed by your doctor.

Contact Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute for Gout Management

If you’re struggling with gout in Austin, TX, and need expert care, the team at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute is here to help. We offer comprehensive treatments, including cortisone injections, to provide relief from joint pain and help prevent future gout attacks.

Schedule a consultation today to start your journey toward pain-free living!

Medically reviewed by Liza Chabokrow, DPM

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